Karima Maaroufi

I was born in Jendouba, Tunisia in 1978, and I am currently an Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at the Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Béja (ISBB), University of Jendouba. I obtained my PhD in Biological Sciences in 2010, specializing in Animal Physiology and Neurosciences. My doctoral thesis focused on the combined effects of electromagnetic field exposure and iron overload on spatial memory in rats, exploring the role of the monoaminergic system and oxidative stress.

Over the past fifteen years, I have developed a strong academic career that combines teaching, research, and institutional service. I teach courses in animal physiology, ecology, neurophysiology, nutrition, and pathology, and I have elaborated pedagogical materials for undergraduate and graduate students. I also supervise Master’s and PhD theses, guiding research on medicinal plants, food biotechnology, and neurophysiology.

My research is structured around three main axes:

1. Studying the interactions between neurotoxic factors and cognitive functions.

2. Analyzing the effects of neurotoxic stress on emotional behavior.

3. Evaluating the protective role of medicinal plants against oxidative stress.

I have published extensively in international journals such as Biological Trace Element Research, Behavioural Brain Research, Journal of Molecular Neuroscience, and Antibiotics. My work has contributed to understanding iron-induced neurotoxicity, electromagnetic field exposure, and the potential of phytotherapy in preventing cognitive and emotional impairments. In addition, I am co-inventor of two patents (2025) related to phytotherapeutic formulations for liver detoxification and male fertility improvement.

My academic journey has been enriched by internships in CNRS laboratories in Marseille and Luminy, as well as participation in Erasmus+ BIOTECH TUNISIA projects in Turin, Italy. I have also completed advanced training in pedagogy, mediation, Lean Six Sigma, and Design Thinking, reflecting my commitment to innovation in both teaching and research.

Beyond my scientific contributions, I serve as a member of the Scientific Council of ISBB (2020–2026) and as president of academic juries. I actively participate in national and international conferences, presenting my findings on neurotoxicity, oxidative stress, and phytotherapy.

With an H-index of 8, a growing portfolio of publications, patents, and supervised theses, I strive to harmonize scientific inquiry with pedagogical excellence and institutional engagement, contributing to the advancement of neuroscience, biotechnology, and higher education in Tunisia and beyond.

Research Interest(s):

-Neurotoxic factors and cognitive impairment

- Emotional behavior under neurotoxic stress

-Protective role of medicinal plants against oxidative stress